A comprehensive framework for physical evaluation of manual material handling tasks

Ratri Parida and Pradip Kumar Ray

International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management, 2011, vol. 24, issue 1/2/3/4, 153-166

Abstract: While designing a worksystem for manual material handling (MMH) tasks, consideration of physical evaluation is of paramount importance in order to identify and minimise both short-term and long-term risks. In this context, assessment of occupational risk factors associated with the physical environment of a worksystem is a critical research need. In this paper, a generic framework for physical evaluation of MMH tasks is proposed. Four kinds of physical environment may be considered in this approach. This framework has been applied for a typical masonry job in a construction site located in Eastern India particularly with respect to effect of thermal environment. Representative sample of 23 male workers were examined. The metabolic rate among mason workers was calculated to be 602.633 W for an average temperature and humidity of 35.9°C and 55.5% RH, respectively. However, relevant solutions for improvements, such as introduction of rest allowances, etc., were suggested.

Keywords: manual materials handling; MMH; physical evaluation; thermal environment; occupational hazards; short-term risks; long-term risks; work systems; India; metabolic rate; work design; masonry jobs; construction industry; heat; temperature; humidity. (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2011
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